Newly Patented Technology Could Help Protect Future Power Grids from Cyberattacks

Researchers at the State University of New York at Stony Brook have received a patent for a new technology that could help protect future energy infrastructure from cyberattacks using quantum communications and advanced networking technologies.

The invention introduces a quantum-secure communication architecture for networked microgrids, localized energy systems that can operate independently or alongside the traditional power grid. By integrating quantum key distribution (QKD), software-defined networking and real-time power system controls, the technology is designed to help safeguard energy infrastructure against both current cyber threats and future attacks enabled by quantum computing.

The newly patented technology was developed by inventors Peng Zhang, Zefan Tang and Walter Krawec and is jointly assigned to the Research Foundation for SUNY and the University of Connecticut. The innovation addresses a growing concern among utilities, governments and infrastructure operators: how to secure critical communications systems in an era when quantum computers could eventually undermine many of today's encryption methods.

As utilities, governments and industries increasingly rely on interconnected energy systems, securing communications between power generation assets, control centers and distributed energy resources has become a growing challenge. Traditional cybersecurity methods depend on mathematical encryption techniques that could eventually become vulnerable to powerful quantum computers. The patented technology addresses that challenge by using the principles of quantum physics to generate and distribute encryption keys that are resistant to both current and future computational attacks.

At the center of the patented system is a QKD-enabled communication architecture for networked microgrids. The invention incorporates a real-time testing environment that allows researchers and utilities to evaluate how quantum-secure communications perform under realistic operating conditions and potential cyberattack scenarios. The patent also introduces a two-level key pool sharing strategy designed to maintain secure communications even when portions of the network are under attack or experiencing disruptions.

The technology was developed with support from the National Science Foundation through grants focused on advancing quantum communications, cybersecurity and resilient energy systems. According to the patent, the system integrates quantum key distribution with software-defined networking and real-time digital simulation platforms to create a flexible framework for future power grid operations.

The patent also highlights the growing convergence of quantum information science and energy infrastructure, two fields that are becoming increasingly interconnected as researchers seek new ways to strengthen the security and resilience of critical systems. As governments and utilities continue investing in grid modernization, technologies such as quantum-secure microgrids may play an important role in protecting energy networks against emerging cybersecurity threats.

"This granted patent represents the kind of innovation that can emerge when researchers apply fundamental discoveries to real-world challenges," said Adam DeRosa, assistant vice president for intellectual property and commercial partnerships at Stony Brook. "The patented technology translates the scientific advances in quantum information science, cybersecurity and energy systems generated by Dr. Zheng's lab into a commercially viable technology for utility providers and companies to integrate in their infrastructure and services."

The innovation is being managed through Stony Brook's Intellectual Property Partners (IPP), which works with faculty inventors to evaluate, protect and commercialize university-developed technologies. IPP helps connect promising innovations with industry partners, investors and entrepreneurs capable of advancing discoveries toward commercial and real-world applications.

Companies, utilities and investors interested in commercializing this technology or exploring partnership opportunities can review the technology opportunity available through Stony Brook Intellectual Property Partners.

-Stephen Pallas